South Africa’s festive season crime crackdown resulted in over 16 000 arrests, targeting violent offences, alcohol-related crimes, and illegal firearms nationwide. Picture Credit: Facebook
By Aisha Zardad
South Africa — Festive season crime has again drawn the attention of law enforcement, with the South African Police Service (SAPS) reporting more than 16 000 arrests nationwide during an intensified year-end crime crackdown. The operation targeted violent offences, alcohol-related crimes, illegal firearms, and other criminal activity that typically spikes during the holiday period.
The nationwide operation, known as Operation Shanela II, ran from 29 December 2025 to 4 January 2026, and involved coordinated efforts across all nine provinces. SAPS deployed additional personnel, roadblocks, and targeted patrols to crime hotspots in both urban and rural areas, ensuring increased visibility and rapid response to incidents.
According to SAPS spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk, a wide range of offences were addressed during the operation. This included 135 murders, 181 rapes, 87 aggravated robberies, and 81 cases of illegal possession of firearms. In addition, officers detained 1 816 motorists for driving under the influence and 939 suspects for illegally trading in liquor, while confiscating more than 30 000 litres of alcohol nationwide.
The crackdown also led to the recovery of 113 firearms, 1 278 rounds of ammunition, and 325 explosives, reflecting SAPS’ commitment to reducing weapon-related crimes during the festive season. Police also recovered 32 stolen or hijacked vehicles, further demonstrating the comprehensive nature of the operation.
Operations were not limited to one province. In the Western Cape, the SAPS Anti-Gang Unit made several arrests linked to shootings and gang-related activities, with suspects facing charges ranging from murder to attempted murder and contraventions of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act. Similar results were reported in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, and the Free State, where authorities disrupted networks involved in contact crimes and drug trafficking.
National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola said the crackdown underscores SAPS’ commitment to protecting communities during a period traditionally associated with heightened criminal activity. “Our officers worked tirelessly to remove offenders from the streets and ensure that South African communities can celebrate the festive season safely,” Masemola said.
Authorities reminded the public that while operations such as these have a tangible impact, sustained reduction of crime relies on community participation, reporting suspicious activity, and supporting law enforcement initiatives. SAPS also urged citizens to comply with traffic and safety regulations, particularly during periods of high holiday movement.
The success of Operation Shanela II demonstrates that coordinated national crime strategies, combined with visible policing, remain crucial tools in maintaining public safety and mitigating the seasonal surge in criminal activity across South Africa.
